Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) (Facebook)

A measure that seeks to facilitate the modernization of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) was filed in the House of Representatives Wednesday, Sept. 6. 

House Bill (HB) No.9060, introduced by ACT-CIS Party-list solons led by Deputy Majority Leader Erwin Tulfo, seeks to introduce essential amendments in the PUP Charter so it can adaptt to the changing needs of modern education. 

Presidential Decree (PD) No,1341 established the PUP in 1978. Tulffo said the law "requires updating to address the evolving educational landscape". 

“The proposed changes are intended to ensure that the PUP remains a relevant and effective institution, committed to high-quality education, innovation, and socio-economic development,” the bill stated. 

“The bill reflects the government’s dedication to advancing education and academic excellence through modernizing PUP’s charter, reinforcing its role as a dynamic institution that meets the diverse educational needs of the nation,” it added. 

Under HB No.9060, PUP is hereby declared as the country's first national polytechnic university. 

"Along with its elevated status as the country's first national polytechnic university, the University will aid support to other polytechnic state universities and colleges to raise the bar by having the former serve as the latter's guide in the development and delivery of professional and technical programs," the 17-page measure said. 

"The University shall enjoy institutional autonomy and fiscal autonomy. It shall be treated in a manner consistent with its institutional requirements by the service-wide agencies in the exercise of their respective jurisdiction," it added. 

"Taking into account national goals and priorities, it shall exclusively determine its teaching, research, and extensions thrust, plans, policies, programs, and standards, consistent with the policies standards, and guidelines promulgated by the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd)," the bill further stated. 

A similar bill was filed by House Speaker Martin Romualdez and Tingog Party-list Reps. Yedda Marie Romualdez and Rep. Jude Acidre last Aug 14, 2023. 

ACT-CIS Party-list Reps Edvic Yap and Jocelyn Tulfo co-authored HB No.9060, along with Benguet lone district Rep. Eric Yap and Quezon city 2nd district Rep. Ralph Tulfo